Sgombro al Cartoccio

Sgombro al Cartoccio is a simple, healthy, and flavorful Italian fish dish, where mackerel (sgombro) is baked in a parchment or foil packet to lock in moisture and infuse the fish with aromatic herbs and spices. From my own personal experience, this technique is not only easy to execute but also results in wonderfully moist and aromatic fish. Let me show you how I make this fantastic dish, which is popular along Italy’s coastal regions, particularly in Sicily, where fresh fish is a staple.

What to Expect:

You’ll experience a tender, flavorful fish that’s infused with aromatic herbs and citrus, making for a very satisfying meal. The wrapping method ensures the fish remains moist, and the presentation is delightful when you open the packet at the table, releasing all those delicious smells.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Course: Main Course (Secondo)

Equipment Needed:

• Oven
• Parchment paper or aluminum foil
• Baking sheet
• Knife and cutting board
• > Go here to buy the must-have equipment and ingredients for making a Savory  #Sgombro al Cartoccio  here.

Ingredients:

• 2 whole mackerel (about 300-400g each), cleaned and gutted
• 2 lemons, sliced
• 4-6 cloves of garlic, crushed
• Fresh rosemary or thyme
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• > Go here to buy the must-have equipment and ingredients for making a Savory  #Sgombro al Cartoccio  here.

Method:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Prepare the Fish: If using whole mackerel, rinse them under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Make a few diagonal slashes on both sides of each fish to help absorb the flavors.
3. Season the Fish: Place each fish on a large sheet of parchment paper or foil. Stuff the belly of each fish with lemon slices, crushed garlic, rosemary, and parsley. Drizzle with a bit of olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Wrap the Fish: Fold the paper or foil around the fish, ensuring it’s tightly sealed, but leave a little room for the steam to circulate inside the packet. This will keep the fish juicy and tender as it bakes.
5. Bake the Fish: Place the wrapped fish on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through (check for flakiness). If you’re using thicker fish, you might need to adjust the cooking time.
6. Serve: Carefully open the packet at the table to release the delicious aromas, and serve with a simple side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.

Variations and Tips:

• Herbs: You can experiment with different herbs like basil or dill, depending on your preference.
• Other Fish: While mackerel is traditional, you can substitute it with other fish such as sea bass, snapper, or trout.
• Vegetables: Add thinly sliced potatoes or cherry tomatoes into the packet for extra flavor.

Substitutions for Dietary Needs:

• Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free.
• Dairy-Free: It is also dairy-free.
• Vegetarian: For a vegetarian version, you can substitute the fish with hearty vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or mushrooms.
• > Go here to buy the must-have equipment and ingredients for making a Savory  #Sgombro al Cartoccio  here.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 250-300
• Protein: 35-40g
• Fat: 12-15g
• Carbohydrates: 8-10g

Closing:

I hope this guide has made making Sgombro al Cartoccio seem a little less daunting! Have you tried it before, or are you excited to give it a go? Please, be honest, and let me know in the comments below. I like to hear feedback from real people like you, so don’t hesitate to leave your honest thoughts! Enjoy your cooking experience!